A fight between Wanderlei Silva and Chael Sonnen is a possible replacement main event for UFC 153 on October 13.

Silva has publicly voiced willingness to meet Sonnen if the UFC officially offers the match and sources say that the bout is under consideration. It would take place at a catchweight of 195lbs - between middleweight and light-heavy - to reflect the short-notice nature of the bout.

A big-name replacement fight became essential for UFC 153 late Tuesday when Quinton Jackson’s withdrawal from a co-main event fight with Glover Texeira was quickly followed by Jose Aldo withdrawing from his featherweight title defence against Frankie Edgar because of a foot injury.

Silva today spoke to Portal do Vale Tudo in Brazil and said a slot on the Rio card would be of interest to him, as would having Sonnen as an opponent.

“I think fighting in Rio would be great. Under no circumstances could I turn that down. I would love to fight for the crowd in Rio, and if it were against that guy who everybody wants me to face, it would be beautiful,” he said.

“From experience, a fighter always has to be ready. I am not in a competition training schedule but I am training, on-weight and feeling good. It’s just a case of if I am offered the fight.

“I accept to fight any one and with him it would be tasteful. It would be a bout that people would like to see. I wasn't offered it yet, but if the boss needs me and I can contribute to make the fans happy, I would feel so glad.”